Visiting Te Waikoropupū Springs: A Guide to the Clearest Water in NZ

The Magic of the “Pupu Springs”

If you’re travelling through Golden Bay, there is one spot that almost everyone will tell you to visit: Te Waikoropupū Springs (or “Pupu Springs” to the locals). These aren’t just your average garden-variety springs. They are the largest cold-water springs in the Southern Hemisphere and hold some of the clearest water ever measured on Earth. The visibility here is around 63 to 81 meters—so clear it’s almost like looking through air. It’s a place that feels prehistoric and incredibly still, making it a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the raw beauty of New Zealand.

A Sacred Taonga: Respecting the Waters

To the local Māori people, the springs are a taonga (treasure) and are considered wāhi tapu (sacred). Traditionally used for healing and ceremonial blessings, the water represents the lifeblood of the land. Because of this spiritual significance—and to protect the pristine water quality—there is a strict “no contact” rule. This means no swimming, no wading, and even no touching the water with your hands. It’s a place to observe and reflect, leaving the water exactly as you found it.

What to Expect During Your Visit

The experience is designed to be accessible and relaxing. From the moment you leave the car park, the air feels cooler and the forest seems to close in around you. It’s a short visit—most people stay for about 30 to 60 minutes—but the impact of seeing the “dancing sands” at the bottom of the vents is something you won’t quickly forget.

The Loop Walk: An Easy Stroll Through Native Bush

The walk itself is a gentle, 1km loop that is mostly flat and even wheelchair accessible in parts. You’ll wind through a forest of Kānuka and Mānuka, crossing bridges over swift-flowing creeks before reaching the main viewing platforms. These platforms are built directly over the water, allowing you to look straight down into the depths. You’ll see vivid green mosses, native eels, and the bubbling vents where 14,000 liters of water erupt every single second.

Best Time to Visit for Maximum Clarity

To really see the springs in their best light, try to go on a sunny day. When the sun is directly overhead (around midday), the light pierces through the water and highlights the aqua-blue colours of the sand on the floor. However, if you prefer a quieter, more spiritual experience, a morning visit when the mist is still hanging over the bush is hard to beat.

Planning Your Trip from Drift Off Grid

The springs are located just a short distance from Takaka, making them a very easy day trip from your Golden Bay accommodation. If you are staying with us at Drift Off Grid, the drive is only about 15 to 20 minutes. It’s the perfect activity to pair with a morning coffee in Takaka or a sunset stroll at Tata Beach. Because it’s such a short walk, it’s a great way to see a world-class natural wonder without needing a full day of hiking gear.

Come Experience the Purity of Golden Bay

There is something deeply grounding about standing on the edge of Te Waikoropupū. In a world that’s always moving, the springs offer a rare moment of absolute clarity. After you’ve spent an hour soaking in the quiet of the reserve, you can head back to your luxury tent at Drift Off Grid, pour a glass of wine, and listen to the same birdsong you heard at the springs. It’s all part of the rhythm of life here in the bay.